Rising tensions between the United States and Iran have triggered fresh controversy in the Middle East after reports claimed the UAE may have carried out direct military strikes inside Iranian territory during the recent regional conflict.
According to a report published by the Wall Street Journal, the UAE allegedly conducted strikes targeting an Iranian facility amid escalating hostilities involving Gulf states. The report claimed the attack caused major damage and triggered a large fire that could disable parts of the targeted site for several months.
The alleged operation has not been officially confirmed by Abu Dhabi. So far, the UAE government has not publicly responded to the claims mentioned in the report.
The incident reportedly took place during a period of intense diplomatic pressure led by former US President Donald Trump’s administration, which was attempting to secure a ceasefire after weeks of military activity and air operations across the region.
Analysts say the reported strike represents a major shift in the UAE’s regional security posture. Traditionally, the country has focused on defensive strategies while relying on Western allies for broader military support.
However, the UAE possesses advanced fighter jets, surveillance systems, and military equipment supplied by Western countries. In recent years, the Gulf state has expanded its military capabilities to protect its economic and strategic interests.
Iran strongly condemned the alleged attack and described it as an “enemy strike.” According to reports, Tehran responded with missile and drone attacks targeting both the UAE and Kuwait.
The regional conflict also renewed focus on American military operations inside the UAE. Al Dhafra Air Base near Abu Dhabi reportedly played an important support role during the conflict. The base was used for intelligence, logistics, refueling, and aircraft operations by US forces.
Iran repeatedly accused the UAE of allowing its territory to be used against Tehran. Although Emirati officials denied that their bases were directly used to launch attacks, Iranian authorities continued to treat the UAE as a participant in the conflict.
Reports suggested that Iran launched hundreds of ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones toward Emirati territory during the confrontation. Key infrastructure sites across the UAE were reportedly targeted, including Dubai International Airport, ADNOC facilities, Jebel Ali Port, and oil installations in Fujairah.
Commercial areas in Dubai and Abu Dhabi were also reportedly affected, while several projectiles landed near shipping routes close to the Strait of Hormuz.
According to available figures, at least 13 people were killed during the attacks. Victims reportedly included Emirati military personnel and foreign workers from Pakistan, India, and Nepal. More than 200 people were also said to have suffered injuries.
The conflict reportedly caused billions of dollars in economic losses for the UAE. Aviation, shipping, tourism, and business sectors faced major disruption during the period of heightened tensions.
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Observers believe the situation has further increased instability in the Gulf region at a time when diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions remain fragile.
